Protesters march in Nicaragua amid political unrest

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Pro- and anti-government protesters hit the streets of Nicaragua’s capital Managua on Saturday, following three months of political unrest.

Supporters of the ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front, carrying banners with images of the party members killed in previous demonstrations, demanded justice for the victims.

Their opponents called for greater democratization. In the southern part of Managua, they chanted anti-government slogans and demanded early elections.

The opposition protest was organized by the Civic Alliance for Justice and Democracy, a coalition of different business associations and representatives of various sectors.

The Nicaraguan Government’s announcement of social security reforms, which increased taxes and cut benefits, has sparked protests since April 18.

President Daniel Ortega canceled the changes several days later after dozens were killed in the clashes. The protests, nevertheless, have continued, with the opposition demanding the president’s ouster.

According to official figures, more than 100 people have been killed in the clashes, with victims on both sides. Local human rights groups, however, say the number is close to 350, with over 2,000 people injured.